Health

A strong public health infrastructure and international aid are crucial to containing the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, a panel of experts said at a discussion held last week at Daemen College.

“The appropriate infrastructure and control strategy to contain this disease is not in place where the outbreak is at its worst in West Africa,” said Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein. “The level of global response will determine how quickly the disease can be kept from spreading or stopped and we must make sure the intensive medical care required reaches these patients.”

A capacity crowd turned out for Daemen’s timely Ebola panel discussion, which also included Dr. Joseph Sahr Sankoh, Daemen associate professor of political science and African affairs, and Anthony Saysay, a native Liberian.

East Aurora resident Steven Helmicki, president of Primordial Strength Inc., a top-level private gym located in Elma, has launched www.anticoncussion.com and developed two USA-manufactured neck training machines and two field manuals that teach progressive, safe neck training. Helmicki has also developed a coaching certification program to reduce the number of concussions among athletes.

In light of the worsening Ebola outbreak in West Africa, Daemen College will host a panel discussion of experts and also offer a personal perspective on the crisis from a native Liberian at the event scheduled for Oct. 20.

The panel discussion, which is part of the Daemen History and Political Science Speakers Series, will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Wick Campus Center Alumni Lounge. The event is free and open to the public.

“In addition to the health care threat of this deadly disease, the Ebola epidemic involves many political, cultural and government policy issues,” said Dr. Joseph Sahr Sankoh, Daemen associate professor of political science/African affairs and panel chair. “The range of expertise from the panelists will help put the public health impact of the Ebola outbreak into perspective and examine the broader implications of the virus as we face this international crisis.”

Western New York football fans have plenty of reasons to celebrate, including a season opening road win and the great news that the local team will apparently stay in Buffalo for many years to come! And now fans have a chance to celebrate the good news with the first home game of the season this Sunday in Orchard Park. However, how you choose to celebrate could have a major impact on your future and the lives of others.

Individuals, families and those looking to learn more about health-related services and benefits information are invited to attend a Health and Wellness Fair hosted by Catholic Charities on Sept. 25 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at 128 Wilson St., Buffalo. Parking is available in a lot off Fillmore Avenue.

More than 30 vendors will provide displays and offer products for purchase, including the Wellness Institute of Greater Buffalo, Tastefully Simple, Lawley Insurance and D’Avolio Olive Oils, Vinegars and More. Attendees can also have their blood pressure measured, receive a back massage from Chair Massage Pit Stop for $1 per minute or sit-in on a Tai Chi demonstration.

A fitness initiative for individuals with disabilities and specialized instruction for trainers will be offered at Daemen College through a $50,000 Inclusive Fitness Field-Related Grant from the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (DDPC). Daemen is one of only three organizations statewide to receive the grant, which is renewable for an additional two years based on the program’s success.

“We are very excited about this project and grateful to the DDPC for providing the funding for such an important endeavor,” said Dr. Michael Brogan, Daemen vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. “With this grant, Daemen can have a real impact on promoting regular exercise as a key element to a healthy lifestyle among individuals with disabilities.”

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in South Wales has received a health care grant from the Maria M. Love Foundation and a large FEMA trailer that will be used to offer extended services. The ROC is a nonprofit Christian organization committed to helping individuals and families living in rural communities to overcome poverty through multiple strategies.